In a new escalation reflecting the growing controversy in the American media landscape, Disney has announced its readiness to defend talk show host Jimmy Kimmel against a move by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to open an early review of broadcast licenses for several ABC network stations owned by the company.

These developments come amid a wave of political and media criticism sparked by satirical remarks Kimmel made on his “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” show, in which he commented on First Lady Melania Trump in a way widely described as controversial, triggering strong reactions at both political and public levels.

According to the announcement made on Tuesday, April 28, the review includes all eight ABC stations owned by Disney, in an unusual move, as the FCC has not conducted such early reviews for decades, raising questions about the motives and timing of the decision, especially since official license renewals are still years away.

The roots of the crisis go back to a segment aired on April 23, when Kimmel jokingly described Melania Trump as “looking like a widow waiting for a baby,” which critics considered a red line crossing, sparking widespread debate across social media platforms.

Kimmel, however, insisted that his remarks were part of “light satire” and did not constitute incitement or direct insult, while reports indicated that Disney is preparing legally and administratively for any potential regulatory consequences.

On the political side, U.S. President Donald Trump called for Kimmel’s immediate dismissal, describing his remarks as “beyond acceptable limits,” while Melania Trump stated that what was said was “not comedy but direct offense.”

Amid this escalation, ABC stations are also undergoing reviews related to diversity and equality policies, while the network has not yet issued an extensive official statement.